2007 WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL NETS $360,000 PROFIT
For Immediate Release
May 29, 2007

The Montana State University Billings Foundation's 15th annual Wine and Food Festival, held May 14-19, netted a record $360,000 for student scholarships and academic programs, MSU Billings Foundation Director Marilynn Miller said this week.

The Wine and Food Festival featured a week of wine seminars, gourmet dining and cooking schools with local, state, and nationally-renowned chefs and wine masters. The week culminates with two grand evenings; a Friday night food, wine-tasting and social event that drew more than 800 people and a Saturday night formal dinner for more than 350. "Wine Fest," as it is now known to many, has become the signature event in Montana and the region for wine and culinary enthusiasts.

The net proceeds this year sets a record, far surpassing the $282,000 netted at the 2006 event. To date, the fundraising event has raised more than $2.5 million for scholarships and other special projects at the university.

"I can't tell you how grateful we are to the community for their continued support for the mission and vision of Montana State University Billings," Miller said.

The 2007 Wine & Food Festival was co-chaired for the second year by Jane Howell, director of the MSU Billings Library, and her husband, Dr. Joe Howell, department chairman and professor of mathematics at MSU Billings. Nearly 400 volunteers work throughout the year to ensure the success of the Wine & Food Festival. The proceeds are used to continue to provide educational "Access and Excellence" for the students of MSU Billings.

For more information:
Marilynn Miller, CEO/President
MSU-Billings Foundation
(406) 657-2244
Jeanne Moller
Director of Alumni & Special Events
MSU-Billings Foundation
(406) 657-1623
Shelley Van Atta
Director of University Relations
(406) 657-2268